ABOUT OCEANS RESEARCH METHODS IN THE USSR

Abstract

Methods of marine research in the USSR carried out during oceanological work according to the plans of the International Geophysical Year and the experience of their organization throughout the vast expanses of the World Ocean are considered, showing the feasibility of conducting ocean research from special expeditionary vessels of large tonnage (more than 3000 tons), such as R/V “Vityaz” (5500 tons) and “Mikhail Lomonosov” (5800 tons). Features of marine research work require special vessels equipped with winches that allow research to the bottom, including trawling and anchoring at any depth of the ocean. The issues of conducting hydrological, hydrochemical, radiochemical studies of sea waters, atmospheric precipitation, bottom sediments and organisms are also discussed; meteorological and aerological studies, which also provide for actinometric work, sounding of the upper atmosphere, as well as drive layers. This is ensured by the corresponding laboratories created on board the vessel in all areas of oceanology. The composition and technique of collecting data and various samples are disclosed. Comprehensive research, covering all aspects of the physical, chemical, geological and biological unified nature of the ocean is a characteristic feature of oceanological research carried out by Soviet scientists.